SUSAN LEONHARD

MEDIUM

Painting

ARTIST STATEMENT

“My work explores the connection between human emotions and water. I strive to create paintings that draw the viewer beneath the surface of the water and evoke the sensation of floating in calm, serene beauty.”

ARTIST BIO

“Water has a naturally calming effect on human beings. Many believe the rhythm of the ocean can quiet the mind, inspire relaxation, and awaken creativity.”

Susan Leonhard is widely recognized for her contemporary underwater oil paintings. The inspiration for this series began in 2014 while snorkeling at Ke’e Beach on Kauai. Captivated by the movement, transparency, and reflective light of the water, she envisioned a collection of large-scale paintings devoted entirely to the beauty and emotion of the ocean itself.

Through layered perspectives and luminous detail, Susan captures the shimmering reflections on the ocean floor and the tranquil depth of underwater light. Collectors often describe her paintings as both vibrant and serene — works that draw viewers beneath the surface and evoke the sensation of floating in calm, open water.

Susan began oil painting at the age of ten, continuing a family tradition spanning three generations of artists. Her artistic path began with traditional landscapes and evolved over more than four decades into the distinctive contemporary water series for which she is now best known.

She lives in Laguna Hills, California, and exhibits at A Gallery Fine Art in Palm Desert, Hanalei Art Gallery in Kauai, Musing Art Gallery in Laguna Beach, and Dana Bay Gallery in Dana Point. Her paintings are included in private and corporate collections throughout the United States and internationally.

Susan’s work is also permanently displayed at St. Joseph Hospital in Burbank, California, and Scripps Green Hospital in La Jolla, California. Her paintings have been featured in publications including Palm Springs Life Magazine, L.A. Travel Magazine, Art Collector Magazine, Gladys Magazine, and The Creative Way. She also collaborates with Laguna Beach Art Tours, presenting live painting demonstrations and corporate art events at the Montage Laguna Beach.

Susan Leonhard is a member of the American Society of Marine Artists.